Quality Counts supports early care and education programs in Alameda County that serve children birth to five years. Quality Counts also helps early care and education providers improve their programs so that children are prepared for kindergarten and to succeed in school and life. We work side-by-side with educators who are committed to quality and want to use best practices in early care and education.
The early years are the foundation for your child’s success in school and life, so it’s important that your child’s program offer a healthy and loving environment for development and learning.
Long-term studies show that children in quality early care and education programs:
Most of a child’s brain development happens in their first five years, so it’s important that young children have the best possible environment for learning and development.
No. Not all licensed programs are part of Quality Counts.
Ask your child’s caregivers and teachers about their philosophy and practice. If you can, spend some time observing. Do the caregiving and child interactions seem loving? Are there fun activities that help your child explore and learn? Does the environment encourage play and positive interactions? Visit California’s Community Care Licensing Division website to learn more about licensing requirements and view licensing inspection information.
Local Resource and Referral Agencies help families find the right child care for them. These services are free and available to all families, regardless of income. Click here to find your local Resource and Referral Agency.
